Every vacation spot has its “must-see” location or attraction, and among Anna Maria Island things to do, that would be Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach.
From the original wooden bridge connecting the street to the mainland to its quaint shops, renovated buildings, and houses that have maintained their charm and Old World feel, Bridge Street is the spot to visit when you vacation at Anna Maria Island.
Whether you need some cultural perspective, are looking to buy a unique souvenir, or want to grab a bite to eat, Bridge Street has it all. You could literally spend an entire day of your vacation on this street alone.
We’ll take a walk down Historic Bridge Street to give you an idea of what you can expect when you actually walk the street itself. We’ll also give some insight into our Anna Maria Island rentals so you can choose among the best places to stay on Anna Maria Island.
Historic Bridge Street Anna Maria Island is the perfect reflection of Old World Florida that the island represents.
About Historic Bridge Street
Bridge Street Anna Maria Island existed even before Bradenton Beach was Bradenton Beach.
Originally known as Cortez Beach, Bradenton Beach is where a wooden bridge known as Cortez Bridge was built in 1921 to connect the beach and the Village of Cortez. The use of the Cortez Bridge ended in 1967 when a drawbridge was erected, and Cortez Beach later became Bradenton Beach. The Bradenton Beach side of the old bridge became the Bridge Street Pier, now famous for fishing and restaurants.
While it has always been a well-known site, Bridge Street, over the past several years, has seen a revitalization, with the number of visitors and businesses rising. Today, the street is home to many one-of-a-kind shops, top Anna Maria Island eateries, spas, and activities such as mini-golf and fishing off the Pier.
Shops on Bridge Street
From beachwear to jewelry and so much more, shops abound on Historic Bridge Street on Anna Maria Island.
Within a short walk, you can pick up any beach items you might need at Bridge Street Bazaar, which carries big brand names in swimwear, beach chair, towels, and t-shirts; jewelry, beachwear, and gifts at The Uptown Lot; unique handmade items at The Hive; and home and office beach décor from Beach Street Interiors.
Shops on Bridge Street also offer local art, souvenirs, beach toys, and homemade food items such as sauces and fudge.
Plan Your Anna Maria Island Vacation
At Mellow on the Beach, we have rooms to fit any group, all our rooms have kitchens and laundry, and you can choose between 1, 2, and 3-bedroom accommodations. Booking your Anna Maria Island vacation will be the best thing you do today!
Bridge Street Restaurants
All that walking, shopping, and mini-golfing will surely make everyone hungry, and there is no shortage of restaurants on Bridge Street of Anna Maria Island.
From full sit-down venues to casual eateries to on-the-go options, there’s something for everyone when it comes to Bridge Street restaurants. From local seafood dishes to burgers to sandwiches and even locales with cocktails and live music, dining is surely a top experience on Bridge Street.
Some choices include Anna Maria Oyster Bar, Bridge Street Bistro, Daiquiri Deck, Blue Marlin Seafood Restaurant, The Bridge Tender Inn, Beach House Waterfront Restaurant, and more.
Stay at Mello on the Beach
One- to three-bedroom Anna Maria Island accommodations are found at Mello on the Beach. As a guest with us, you’ll enjoy a pool with a pool house, BBQ grills, a fire pit, a personal outdoor shower, a lawn to hang out or play games on, bikes, and private beach access.
Rooms offer a fully-stocked kitchenette, in-unit washer/dryer, bright beachy décor, ceiling fans, high-speed complimentary internet, and provided linens.
What’s more, when you stay with us at Mello on the Beach resort, you’re just 2.5 miles from Historic Bridge Street. Make your dream vacation become a reality, and book your Anna Maria Island vacation rental with Mello on the Beach today!
